Azerbaijan recognizes Interim Transitional Council of Libya

Azerbaijan has recognized the Interim Transitional Council of Libya, the Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan reported.

"The Republic of Azerbaijan respects the will of the Libyan people and recognizes the Interim Transitional Council of Libya as the authority of Libya," said the press service of the Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan.

So far, more than 75 countries have recognized the Interim Transitional Council of Libya.

In mid-February, Libya faced mass demonstrations calling for the withdrawal of Gaddafi, who rules the country for over 40 years. The demonstrations then turned into an armed confrontation between the government forces and rebels.

Currently, Gaddafi's forces retain control over several areas in the country, the largest of which is the city of Sirte on the Mediterranean coast. Interim Transitional Council previously made an ultimatum to the supporters Gaddafi, offering to lay down arms until Sept. 10. Otherwise, the rebels backed by NATO forces will begin full-scale operations.

UN Security Council imposed no-fly zone over Libya on March 17. A coalition of Western countries began a military operation in Libya on March 19 to ensure no-fly zone, arms embargo and civil protection. The operation's leadership then was completely taken over by NATO. The mandate of the operation was due to expire on June 27, but on June 1, the NATO extended operation for 90 days - until the end of September.